Lovey Moore Bigham

Lovey Moore Bigham, born on August 4, 1931, in Cowpens, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, in Asheville, North Carolina. She was a beloved figure in her community, whose dedication to education, music, and service touched the lives of many.

For over 28 years, Lovey fulfilled her vocation as an elementary school teacher at West Buncombe Elementary School. Initially teaching Special Education, she later became a cherished 3rd-grade teacher, leaving a lasting impact on her students and colleagues alike with her commitment to learning and compassionate nature.

Beyond her teaching career, Lovey was known for her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ and dedication to her church. After moving to Asheville in 1966, she joined Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, where she served as Music Minister for an impressive 38 years. She directed numerous choir groups, played piano, and created the beloved "Behold Your King" Christmas Production, a cherished annual event that attracted standing room only audiences and became a much-anticipated highlight of the holiday season for the community.

Lovey’s love for music extended beyond the church; she was an active volunteer at the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove for over 25 years, where she delighted guests with her piano playing and led tours with a joyful spirit.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Lovey loved and cherished her family deeply. She is survived by her two children, Michael Bigham and his fiancée Andrea Anderson, and Terri LaFevers. Her grandchildren: Lindsey Thomsson and her husband Stephen, Lucas LaFevers and his wife Meagan, along with her great-grandchildren: Kali Thomsson, Abel LaFevers, Laela LaFevers, Silas LaFevers, and Jaxon LaFevers, all of whom were sources of immense pride and joy in her life. She also leaves behind her sister, Martha Axmann, along with many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly, an extended family that filled her heart, and many others that affectionately referred to her as their second mother.

Lovey was preceded in death by her husband George M. Bigham; her parents, Edward Lawrence Moore, Sr. and Meanie Etta Martin Moore; Terri’s husband and her son-in-law, Dennis LaFevers; her brother-in-law, William Axmann; and her siblings, Klym Allen and her husband Maynard, Lawrence Moore, Jr. and his wife Jean, and Pep Seaborn and her husband George.

She had a bachelor’s degree in music and education from Winthrop University. Her zest for life was infectious and she was dedicated to serving others. She loved going to the theater and attended many Neil Diamond concerts with her family, creating cherished memories that will endure in the hearts of those who knew her.

Lovey Moore Bigham will be remembered not only for her significant contributions to others through teaching and music but also for the love and warmth she extended to all who crossed her path. Her memory lives on through her family who loved, cherished, and have deep appreciation for her unconditional love and sacrifice, and friends, who will hold her spirit close as they gather to celebrate her life.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:45 PM, followed by a Celebration of her life at 3:00 PM at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, located at 200 Mount Carmel Road, Asheville, NC 28806. Rev. Dr. Ronnie Owen will officiate, and burial will follow at Newfound Baptist Church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to the Broyhill Baptist Children’s Home, 111 Sneed Dr, Clyde, NC 28721 or online at bchfamily.org

Anders-Rice Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve the Bigham family.